UHURU Event: Where's the Unity Forum

Video by Teiairra Brewer
Story by Kelly Petryszyn
Solutions were the topic of discussion at the UHURU-sponsored “Where is the unity forum?” on Nov. 19 at 7 p.m. in the Oscar Ritchie multipurpose room. The forum addressed the problem of racism and how to overcome this issue. Attendees spoke out about experiences with racism they had. One student had a cup of soda thrown at her because she was black. Another was out on Halloween in Kent and continuously called nigger. Professors George Garrison and Idris Kabir Syed were in attendance. The Vice President of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion, Alfreda Brown was also in attendance and reminded the audience of the Gandhi quote, “Be the change you want to see in the world.”
Education was a key point of discussion. Some brought up how Pan African Studies classes have helped them learn identity and truth. Many agreed that Pan African Studies classes should be a requirement for all KSU students. The discussion also turned to the youth. Some feel the change needs to start with the youth because it is important to educate the youth about these issues so they know the truth growing up. UHURU co-editors Dwayne Yates and Kyle Roerink also spoke. John Byerly closed the program by challenging the crowd to let the change happen within our own thoughts.
The forum was successful in starting dialogue, but now UHURU wants to start taking action. John Byerly passed around a sign up sheet at the event for a group he is starting that will meet and discuss Pan-African history. Other service ideas and community outreach will be considered in the future. Tell us if you have some suggestions for how UHURU can proceed past racism and towards unity!